How To Create Good Videos For Linkedin
“First impressions are the most lasting.” – Proverb
Most people on LinkedIn have built their personal brand by sharing thoughts through written posts or sharing things they like. This is a brand built over a canvas that hides a visual dimension of yourself from the public.
Recently, LinkedIn has brought us the ability to share videos.
In doing so, it has exposed this physical dimension for those who utilize this feature.
Should you be making videos?
Yes. IF you are prepared.
Ever since LinkedIn added the video feature, I’ve watched a few people use it to rise to success.
Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed many more people destroy their brand and image.
How you present yourself on video is how people will first view you.
Just because LinkedIn (or any social platform) has added a video feature, doesn't mean you should be rushing to use it.
Making a good video is a skill.
And like any skill, it takes practice to get good at it.
If you are considering making videos, here are a few tips to help you get started and make a strong first impression:
First, it’s important to understand the basics of shooting proper video:
- Shoot In Landscape (Framing) – Shoot in landscape (horizontal) mode for capturing better footage. Nobody (generally) wants to look at a narrow vertical video (portrait mode).
- **Use Both Hands (Stability) **– Like catching a ball, you should always use two hands to hold your phone. The last thing you want is shaky video. If you want more stability, go a step further and invest in a selfie stick or tri-pod.
- Head Towards The Light (Lighting) – You aren’t dying (I hope) so , “Head towards the light.” Always film with the direction of the light facing you. If the light is behind you and directed at the camera, you will get a dark, low quality shot.
- **Quiet On The Set! (Audio) **– Make sure you are in a location with little to no background noise and decent acoustics. If you are thinking of filming outside, be sure you have proper sound equipment to avoid wind and other noises from ruining your shot.
- K.I.S.S (Set) – Keep it simple, silly. You don’t want your background to be a distraction and take away from the main attraction, YOU. Think of your audience and what they may most relate to. If you are in business, a professional setting like an office, library, or living room is best. You should try to avoid your bedroom as much as possible unless it makes sense for the topic.
Second, act like you have done this before (because you should have):
- Be a Copycat (kind of) – It’s okay to learn from others. Take time to watch videos from people you follow. Emulate styles you like and avoid doing what you don’t.
- Be Comfortable & Confident – Do you remember watching a video or talking to someone who was obviously uncomfortable and not confident in themselves? It made you feel awkward right? Your audience is going to feel the same way you do. So make sure you practice until you are comfortable and confident in front of the camera and with what you are saying. Which leads to our next point….
- Practice – Do NOT try to just “wing” your video. Know what you are going to say and how you are going to say it. Like anything else you want to be good at, you need practice. Write down what you want to say, record a few practice shoots or rehearse in front of a mirror.
- Make it feel like a conversation – Few people like to be talked at or be told what to do. Most people want to feel engaged in a conversation or believe you understand them. Invite them in. Reason with the audience through story telling. If you speak in a way that makes the viewer feel apart of the conversation, you will be able to hold their attention longer.
- Know Your Audience – Know who you are talking to and play to it. If it’s people on the go, keep the video short and concise. If it’s a HOW TO video make sure it’s detailed and easy to understand. If you talk fast or the topic is a little complex, consider adding subtitles. Making your video appeal to your audience will help you deliver a stronger message and also help hold their attention.
Here are two videos that further discuss this topic: